Best Resorts in Ontario: Rustic and Luxurious Getaways for Every Traveller
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We moved to Canada in 2019 and have spent years exploring Ontario’s most memorable places to stay, from cozy lakeside cabins to polished boutique hotels. These are the spots we keep coming back to and recommending to everyone who asks.
Are you ready to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in Ontario’s most enchanting retreats? From lakeside resorts to cozy boutique hotels, Ontario offers a plethora of options for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and everything in between. Join us as we unravel the hidden gems of Ontario’s resorts, hotels, and motels, and discover the perfect getaway for you. Whether you are searching for the best resorts in Ontario for families, couples, or a solo retreat, this guide covers the full range of unique stays Ontario has to offer, including some outstanding options for luxury resorts in Ontario Canada.
Planning a northern Ontario road trip to combine resort stays with the great outdoors? Check out our North Ontario Itinerary for a ready-made guide to the region.
Hidden Valley Resort Muskoka: Where Adventure Meets Tranquility
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Search Muskoka Lakes Hotels on Expedia →Footprints Resort: A Peaceful Oasis for Adults Only
Escape to Footprints Resort, a serene retreat near Bancroft, where nature meets luxury. This 21+ resort offers a cozy haven by a private lake, surrounded by pristine mountains and water. Choose from a variety of accommodations, including cozy rooms, rustic cabins, or camping under the stars. Whether you’re looking to unwind by the lake, explore the surrounding trails, or simply relax in the peaceful ambiance, Footprints Resort offers the perfect getaway for adults seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
We were struck by how genuinely quiet Footprints is. There are no kids running through the grounds, no background noise from a busy bar. It is designed entirely around the idea that adults sometimes need space to actually rest. The private lake access makes it feel more remote than it actually is, which is a real achievement given how easy it is to reach from Toronto.
We recommend booking one of the lakeside cabins for maximum privacy. The campfire setups by the water are a particular highlight on clear evenings.
Address: 1238 Sherborne Lake Rd, Bancroft, ON K0L 1C0
Admission: Accommodation packages vary. Check footprintsresort.com for current rates.
Parking: On-site parking available.
Confirm 21-plus age policy and current availability before booking.
Bancroft sits within reach of several great Ontario getaway destinations. See our top fall activities in Waterloo guide for ideas to pair with a Footprints stay on a longer Ontario loop.
Lungovita Beach Retreat: Reconnect with Nature in Style
Discover the ultimate retreat at Lungovita Beach Retreat, located on a 16-acre property in Ontario. This unique resort offers luxurious domes and tents amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. Indulge in a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, hammocks, and kayaking on the nearby lake. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a dip in the pool or embark on an outdoor adventure, Lungovita Beach Retreat offers the perfect blend of luxury and nature.
Lungovita is the kind of place that photographs beautifully and then exceeds expectations in person. Staying in a dome surrounded by trees with a hot tub nearby is a genuinely different experience from a standard hotel room. We found it particularly special at night, when the natural darkness of the property made stargazing from the hammocks something worth staying up late for.
Our advice is to arrive with as few plans as possible and let the property set the pace. The kayaks are included and the lake is beautiful in the early morning before anyone else is on the water.
Verify current availability and dome pricing directly with the property before booking.
For more Ontario nature experiences, browse our top farms to visit in Ontario this fall to complement a glamping stay with a harvest day trip nearby.
The Beach Motel: Ontario's Trendiest Lakeside Boutique Resort
Experience the epitome of lakeside luxury at The Beach Motel, a hidden gem in Southampton. This boutique resort offers stylish accommodations with Scandinavian vibes and modern amenities. Indulge in farm-to-table cuisine at the Sandbar restaurant, relax in the sauna, or enjoy a cozy sips n’ s’mores night by the fire pit. With the beach just a short walk away, The Beach Motel is the perfect destination for a relaxing lakeside getaway.
We have a particular fondness for The Beach Motel because it does something difficult: it makes a motel feel genuinely aspirational. The Scandinavian design is cohesive without being cold, and the Sandbar restaurant is genuinely good, not just adequate for a captive resort audience. Southampton itself is a small-town gem on Lake Huron that more Ontarians should know about.
We recommend visiting in late summer when the Lake Huron sunsets from the beach are at their most dramatic. Book the sips n’ s’mores experience in advance as it fills up quickly on weekends.
Address: 243 High St, Southampton, ON N0H 2L0
Parking: On-site parking available.
Confirm current room availability and Sandbar restaurant hours before visiting.
Southampton is part of a beautiful Bruce Peninsula route. Pair your stay with a visit to things to do on Pelee Island if you are doing a broader Lake Huron area trip.
The VanderMarck Boutique Hotel: Historic Charm Meets Modern Luxury
Step back in time and experience the historic charm of The VanderMarck Boutique Hotel, located in Downtown Collingwood. This landmark hotel has been redefined with Scandinavian-inspired decor and luxurious amenities. Choose from luxury studio, one, or two-bedroom apartment-style suites, and indulge in a range of packages, including combined stays with Scandinavia Spa Blue Mountain. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of Collingwood or unwinding in the comfort of your suite, The VanderMarck Boutique Hotel offers a truly unforgettable experience.
We love that the VanderMarck puts you within walking distance of Collingwood’s independent shops and restaurants. The combined spa package with Scandinavia Spa Blue Mountain is our top recommendation for a couples weekend in this part of Ontario.
Address: 45 Hurontario St, Collingwood, ON L9Y 2L8
Confirm suite availability and current spa package pricing before booking.
Blue Mountain is just minutes from Collingwood. See our Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster experience at Blue Mountain if you are planning a family or active-couple visit to the area.
Arlington Hotel: Historic Hotel Older Than Canada
Nestled in Downtown Paris, Ontario, the historic hotel boasts a unique charm that sets it apart from the rest. With rooms themed after legendary authors and artists, guests are treated to an immersive experience like no other. From the whimsical Monty Python room to the thought-provoking Shakespearean suite, each corner offers a delightful escape into the world of creativity and literature. Just minutes away from Penman’s Day, the town’s most famous location, the Arlington Hotel is the perfect destination for those seeking a blend of history, charm, and literary inspiration.
Paris, Ontario is one of those small Ontario towns that genuinely rewards a slow visit. The Arlington sits at its historic heart, and walking through the themed rooms is as much a cultural experience as it is a place to sleep. The literary focus gives the whole property a personality that chain hotels simply cannot replicate.
We stayed during a weekend visit to the Grand River area and ended up spending far longer than planned exploring Paris itself. The town’s stone architecture and riverside paths make it one of Ontario’s most underrated destinations.
Address: 7 Grand River St N, Paris, ON N3L 2M3
Confirm current room availability and themed suite options before booking.
Paris sits in the Waterloo region corridor. Our guide to fall activities in the Waterloo region pairs well with a night at the Arlington for a full weekend itinerary in southwestern Ontario.
Best Time to Visit Ontario Resorts
Spring (April to May) is a quieter time at most Ontario resorts. We find it ideal for spa-focused stays and boutique hotel visits in Collingwood or Muskoka, when prices are lower and trails are beginning to open. Expect cooler temperatures and the occasional rain, but also fresh green landscapes and shorter lines at popular spots.
Summer (June to August) is peak season across the province. Lakeside resorts fill up fast and prices rise accordingly, so we always recommend booking at least six to eight weeks in advance if you have your heart set on a specific property. The payoff is warm water, long evenings, and the full range of outdoor activities on offer.
Fall (September to October) is our personal favourite time to visit Ontario resorts. The foliage across Muskoka and the Haliburton Highlands is genuinely spectacular, crowds thin out after Labour Day, and many properties offer shoulder-season rates. Resorts near Collingwood also benefit from excellent hiking conditions on the Niagara Escarpment at this time of year.
Winter (November to March) is the season for ski resorts and cozy indoor retreats. Hidden Valley Resort in Muskoka operates its ski hill through the winter months, while properties like The VanderMarck in Collingwood benefit from proximity to Blue Mountain. Adult-only resorts such as Footprints offer a deeply peaceful experience when the snow is on the ground and the trails are quiet.
Best Resorts in Ontario by Area
Ontario is large, and the right resort depends significantly on where you want to be. Here is how the options break down by region:
- Muskoka: The classic Ontario resort destination. Hidden Valley Resort is the standout for active families and winter sports. The lake-dotted landscape makes almost any property feel special, and Muskoka offers some of the best luxury resort options in the province. This area is most accessible from Toronto via Highway 400.
- Collingwood and Blue Mountain: The best concentration of boutique hotels and spa-focused stays in Ontario, with The VanderMarck as the top pick for couples. The Scandinavia Spa and Blue Mountain ski hill are both within minutes, making this area ideal for a luxury long weekend. A strong choice for those seeking best boutique hotels ontario experiences close to the escarpment.
- Bancroft and Haliburton: Less travelled and more affordable than Muskoka, this area rewards visitors who want a quieter experience. Footprints Resort is the standout adult-only option, and the surrounding Crown Land and lakes offer exceptional paddling, hiking, and wildlife watching.
- Southampton and Lake Huron: The Beach Motel has put Southampton on the map for design-conscious travellers. Lake Huron sunsets are some of the best in Canada, and the Bruce Peninsula to the north offers day trip options for visitors staying in the area.
- Paris and Southwestern Ontario: Underrated and easy to reach from the GTA, southwestern Ontario has the Arlington Hotel as its most characterful stay. The Grand River, scenic small towns, and proximity to Waterloo Region make this area a strong choice for a relaxed two-night weekend away.
Free and No-Reservation Options Near Ontario Resorts
Not every part of an Ontario resort trip needs to be booked in advance or involve an admission fee. Many of the most memorable experiences are found outside the resort gates, and we always plan at least one free activity around any paid stay.
Ontario Parks offers free access to the day-use areas of many provincial parks, though vehicle permits are required at most locations. Swimming, hiking, and picnicking at parks near Muskoka, Bancroft, and the Bruce Peninsula do not require advance reservations for day visits outside of peak summer weekends. We have walked into Arrowhead Provincial Park on a weekday in October without a reservation and had the trails almost entirely to ourselves.
The towns around most Ontario resorts also offer free walking experiences worth building into your itinerary. Collingwood’s main street is entirely free to explore, Paris Ontario’s riverside is a lovely afternoon walk at no cost, and Southampton’s beach is publicly accessible. We recommend arriving at your resort destination a few hours early to explore the surrounding town before checking in.
Tips for Visiting Ontario Resorts with Kids or Toddlers
Ontario resorts vary significantly in how family-friendly they are, and it is worth doing your research before booking with young children. Our clearest advice is to call the property directly and ask specifically about toddler amenities: high chairs, crib availability, shallow pool access, and quiet hours. What counts as family-friendly on a website does not always translate to a toddler-comfortable environment in practice.
Hidden Valley Resort in Muskoka is our top recommendation for families with young kids. The indoor heated pool is accessible year-round and is a lifesaver on cold or rainy days. The ski hill has beginner terrain and lessons available, and the overall property is designed around the idea that families with different ages and abilities can all find something to do without one parent feeling stuck.
For more ideas on family-friendly outings across the GTA and Ontario, our guide to things to do with family in Toronto and the GTA covers indoor and outdoor options you can combine with a resort stay on a longer trip.
Pack layers regardless of the season. Ontario weather changes quickly, especially at lakeside and escarpment properties, and the difference between a morning hike and an afternoon swim is often a single weather system. We have been caught in unexpected rain at Muskoka properties more than once and have learned to keep rain jackets accessible at all times.
Treat Yourself to the JW Marriott Rosseau Muskoka
Don’t let this luxury resort slip away. Book your stay at the JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa through Expedia and indulge in the ultimate Muskoka escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there luxury resorts in Ontario?
Yes. Ontario has a wide range of luxury resorts, from Muskoka lakeside properties to boutique spa retreats in Collingwood and the Blue Mountain area. Options include full-service resorts with spas, fine dining, and outdoor activities suitable for couples and families. Properties such as The VanderMarck in Collingwood and Hidden Valley Resort in Muskoka are strong starting points for luxury-focused trips.
Is there an all-inclusive resort in Ontario?
Ontario has resorts that offer all-inclusive packages, though they are different from Caribbean-style all-inclusives. Properties such as Fern Resort and Severn Lodge offer package plans that include meals, activities, and accommodation in a single price. We recommend contacting properties directly to ask about their current package options, as these change seasonally.
What are the best resorts in Ontario for couples?
Great couple-focused options include Footprints Resort near Bancroft (adults-only, private lake setting), The VanderMarck Boutique Hotel in Collingwood (spa packages available), and The Beach Motel in Southampton (Scandinavian-inspired lakeside atmosphere). All three prioritise a quiet, design-forward experience over family programming.
What are the best resorts in Ontario for families?
Hidden Valley Resort in Muskoka is one of the top choices for families, offering skiing, skating, and an indoor heated pool. Many resorts listed with the Resorts of Ontario association also offer family packages with kids programming, outdoor activities, and meal plans. We suggest checking their website at resortsofontario.com for a full filtered list by activity type.
Where is the prettiest place to stay in Ontario?
Muskoka is widely considered one of Ontario’s most beautiful regions, with lake-dotted landscapes and forested shorelines. The Collingwood and Blue Mountain area offers a different kind of scenery, with rolling escarpment hills and proximity to Georgian Bay. Both regions have strong accommodation options and are within two to three hours of Toronto.
Are there adult-only resorts in Ontario?
Yes. Footprints Resort near Bancroft is a well-known adults-only (21 plus) property with a private lake setting. Several other Ontario resorts offer adult-only wings or designate certain seasons as quieter adult-focused periods. Confirm the age policy directly with any property before booking if this is important to your trip.
Unravel the beauty of Ontario’s resorts, hotels, and motels, and embark on a journey of relaxation, adventure, and discovery in the heart of Canada’s most enchanting landscapes. Whether you are chasing the best resorts in Ontario for a winter ski trip, a summer lake escape, or a cozy autumn weekend, we have visited these spots ourselves and can tell you they are genuinely worth the drive.
We have done the planning so you do not have to. Browse our tried and tested Canada travel itineraries and start your adventure.
Related Links
- Many resorts in Ontario offer gourmet dining, but if you’re craving authentic international flavours, explore Toronto and GTA’s Middle Eastern eateries for a flavorful and unique dining experience.
- If you’re looking to explore beyond Ontario for a charming and elegant retreat, consider a weekend getaway in Quebec.
- Planning outdoor adventures to pair with your resort stay? Our guide to things to do with family in Toronto and the GTA covers top family and group activities across the greater Toronto area.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book through our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep bringing you great travel content. All recommendations are based on our personal experience.